Why personal branding is becoming more important for tomorrow’s ICT workers

With thousands of fresh IT graduates coming out of universities every year, a reputation for IT graduates having low employability compared to other fields, and a mismatch between what is being taught and what industry needs, standing out isn't just an advantage—it's a necessity.

So what exactly is a personal brand? And how does it reflect your skills and position you as a forward-thinking ICT professional ready to tackle tomorrow's challenges?

It’s about more than your digital DNA

Before you start building your brand, take a moment to decode your digital DNA. What makes you unique in the vast ecosystem of tech talent?

I recently worked with Zara (not her real name), a recent Computer Science graduate. She was passionate about both AI and environmental sustainability but struggled to find her niche. We did a deep dive into her interests and discovered her knack for applying machine learning algorithms to climate data. She had never been employed in a role that did that, but she had done some work on her own in this area. The problem was, no one knew about it! Suddenly, Zara wasn't just another fresher with an interest in AI looking for a job—she became a go-to person for AI-driven climate tech.

The platforms where employers are looking

Your online presence is your permanent hackathon project. It's constantly evolving, always on display, and forever being judged by peers and potential employers.

So if you know you’re good at what you do, have some skills you can show, and see this as a fun challenge rather than a giant obstacle, then read on.

GitHub: your code canvas

Transform your GitHub from a mere code repository into a storytelling platform. For each project:

• Write clear, concise READMEs that explain the problem you're solving.
• Include visuals—flowcharts, screenshots, or even GIFs demonstrating your application.
• Tag your repositories with relevant technologies to improve discoverability.

Pro tip: Pin your best projects to your GitHub profile. Think of it as your technical highlight reel.

LinkedIn: your professional API

Think of your LinkedIn profile as an API—it should provide a clear, structured representation of your professional self. Key endpoints to optimize:

• Header: Use a banner image that represents your tech interests.
• About section: Write a compelling 'elevator pitch' that highlights your tech specialty.
• Experience: Don’t just list job titles—showcase projects, technologies used, and quantifiable achievements.
• Skills: Regularly update this section with emerging technologies you're learning.

You don’t need to post every day. Just set a realistic posting schedule and stick to it.

Positioning yourself for emerging tech

The ICT industry isn't just changing—it's quantum leaping. Position yourself at the forefront of these emerging fields:

Quantum computing

 As quantum computers move from research labs to practical applications, there's a growing demand for professionals who understand both quantum mechanics and computer science. Start by learning platforms like Qiskit or Cirq, and showcase small quantum algorithms on your GitHub.

Edge computing

With the rise of IoT devices, edge computing is becoming crucial. Demonstrate your expertise by creating projects that process data at the network's edge. For instance, build a smart home system that processes data locally for faster response times.

Ethical AI

As AI systems become more prevalent, the need for ethical considerations in AI development is paramount. Position yourself in this space by writing thoughtful blog posts on AI ethics or developing projects that demonstrate responsible AI practices.

Cybersecurity: using what you know

When it comes to cybersecurity, show potential employers that you practice what you preach:

• Use PGP encryption for your professional email communications.
• Implement two-factor authentication on all your professional accounts.
• Regularly participate in bug bounty programs to hone your security skills and demonstrate ethical hacking abilities.

Putting your best self forward

All tech jokes aside, your personal brand is the key variable that sets you apart. It's not just about the languages you code in or the frameworks you know—it's about the unique perspective you bring to solving tomorrow's tech challenges.

In a sea of candidates with the same degrees and few employable skills, you're not just another node—you’re a quantum bit, existing in multiple states of potential until observed. Your personal brand is what determines how the industry perceives that potential.

Dante St James Director - Innovation & Investment Readiness - Darwin Innovation Hub